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Rumney BM, Morgan SR, Mosselmans JFW, Malik FT, Holden SJ, Parker AR, White N, Lewis PN, Albon J, Meek KM. Characterisation of carapace composition in developing and adult ostracods ( Skogsbergia lerneri) and its potential for biomaterials. MARINE BIOLOGY 2022; 169:78. [PMID: 35607419 PMCID: PMC9119885 DOI: 10.1007/s00227-022-04047-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The protective carapace of Skogsbergia lerneri, a marine ostracod, is scratch-resistant and transparent. The compositional and structural organisation of the carapace that underlies these properties is unknown. In this study, we aimed to quantify and determine the distribution of chemical elements and chitin within the carapace of adult ostracods, as well as at different stages of ostracod development, to gain insight into its composition. Elemental analyses included X-ray absorption near-edge structure, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction. Nonlinear microscopy and spectral imaging were performed to determine chitin distribution within the carapace. High levels of calcium (20.3%) and substantial levels of magnesium (1.89%) were identified throughout development. Amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) was detected in carapaces of all developmental stages, with the polymorph, aragonite, identified in A-1 and adult carapaces. Novel chitin-derived second harmonic generation signals (430/5 nm) were detected. Quantification of relative chitin content within the developing and adult carapaces identified negligible differences in chitin content between developmental stages and adult carapaces, except for the lower chitin contribution in A-2 (66.8 ± 7.6%) compared to A-5 (85.5 ± 10%) (p = 0.03). Skogsbergia lerneri carapace calcium carbonate composition was distinct to other myodocopid ostracods. These calcium polymorphs and ACC are described in other biological transparent materials, and with the consistent chitin distribution throughout S. lerneri development, may imply a biological adaptation to preserve carapace physical properties. Realisation of S. lerneri carapace synthesis and structural organisation will enable exploitation to manufacture biomaterials and biomimetics with huge potential in industrial and military applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M. Rumney
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - Siân R. Morgan
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - F. Tegwen Malik
- School of Management, Swansea University, Fabian Way, Swansea, SA1 8EN UK
| | - Simon J. Holden
- DSTL Physical Sciences Group, Platform Systems Division, DSTL Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JQ UK
| | - Andrew R. Parker
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 0HG UK
| | - Nick White
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Labs, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - Philip N. Lewis
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Julie Albon
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Labs, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Keith M. Meek
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
- Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Rumney BM, Malik FT, Morgan SR, Parker AR, Holden S, Albon J, Lewis PN, Meek KM. The ultrastructural development and 3D reconstruction of the transparent carapace of the ostracod Skogsbergia lerneri. MARINE BIOLOGY 2022; 169:35. [PMID: 35221378 PMCID: PMC8841342 DOI: 10.1007/s00227-021-04006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Skogsbergia lerneri is a marine ostracod which possesses a carapace that is both protective and transparent. Since development of this carapace and how it is maintained in the adult is not known, the aim of this investigation was to carry out an in-depth ultrastructural study of the ostracod carapace at different developmental stages. Standard transmission electron microscopy and novel serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) were undertaken to discern carapace ultrastructure in both two and three dimensions. Analysis revealed a carapace consisting of the same basic layer structure as other myodocopid ostracods, namely an epicuticle, exocuticle, endocuticle and membranous layer, but with a thinner adult carapace of mean thickness of 19.2 ± 1.78 µm, n = 5. The carapace layers, except for instar 1 ostracods, had similar relative proportions throughout development. The endocuticle and membranous layer thickened through advancing developmental stages due to an increase in calcified crystalline polyhedrons and a greater number of chitinous lamellae in the membranous layer. Crystalline polyhedron dimensions were significantly smaller near the boundary with the membranous layer. The borders between the carapace layers were indistinct; SBF-SEM revealed an abundance of epicuticle projections into the exocuticle and apparent gradual merging at the boundary of the exocuticle and the endocuticle. Here, we discuss how the S. lerneri carapace layer structure has evolved to serve a specific mechanical function, allowing surface protection and rigidity. In addition, we suggest that the lack of pigment and graduated layer boundaries contribute to the transparency of the carapace. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00227-021-04006-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M. Rumney
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - F. Tegwen Malik
- Swansea University, School of Management, Swansea, SA1 8EN UK
| | - Siân R. Morgan
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - Andrew R. Parker
- Green, Templeton College, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 0HG UK
| | - Simon Holden
- DSTL Physical Sciences Group, Platform Systems Division, DSTL Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JQ UK
| | - Julie Albon
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - Philip N. Lewis
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
| | - Keith M. Meek
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
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Biomimetic Transparent Eye Protection Inspired by the Carapace of an Ostracod (Crustacea). NANOMATERIALS 2021; 11:nano11030663. [PMID: 33800395 PMCID: PMC8001554 DOI: 10.3390/nano11030663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study we mimic the unique, transparent protective carapace (shell) of myodocopid ostracods, through which their compound eyes see, to demonstrate that the carapace ultrastructure also provides functions of strength and protection for a relatively thin structure. The bulk ultrastructure of the transparent window in the carapace of the relatively large, pelagic cypridinid (Myodocopida) Macrocypridina castanea was mimicked using the thin film deposition of dielectric materials to create a transparent, 15 bi-layer material. This biomimetic material was subjected to the natural forces withstood by the ostracod carapace in situ, including scratching by captured prey and strikes by water-borne particles. The biomimetic material was then tested in terms of its extrinsic (hardness value) and intrinsic (elastic modulus) response to indentation along with its scratch resistance. The performance of the biomimetic material was compared with that of a commonly used, anti-scratch resistant lens and polycarbonate that is typically used in the field of transparent armoury. The biomimetic material showed the best scratch resistant performance, and significantly greater hardness and elastic modulus values. The ability of biomimetic material to revert back to its original form (post loading), along with its scratch resistant qualities, offers potential for biomimetic eye protection coating that could enhance material currently in use.
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Morgan SR, Paletto L, Rumney B, Malik FT, White N, Lewis PN, Parker AR, Holden S, Meek KM, Albon J. Establishment of long-term ostracod epidermal culture. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2020; 56:760-772. [PMID: 33034828 PMCID: PMC7658072 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00508-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Primary crustacean cell culture was introduced in the 1960s, but to date limited cell lines have been established. Skogsbergia lerneri is a myodocopid ostracod, which has a body enclosed within a thin, durable, transparent bivalved carapace, through which the eye can see. The epidermal layer lines the inner surface of the carapace and is responsible for carapace synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to develop an in vitro epidermal tissue and cell culture method for S. lerneri. First, an optimal environment for the viability of this epidermal tissue was ascertained, while maintaining its cell proliferative capacity. Next, a microdissection technique to remove the epidermal layer for explant culture was established and finally, a cell dissociation method for epidermal cell culture was determined. Maintenance of sterility, cell viability and proliferation were key throughout these processes. This novel approach for viable S. lerneri epidermal tissue and cell culture augments our understanding of crustacean cell biology and the complex biosynthesis of the ostracod carapace. In addition, these techniques have great potential in the fields of biomaterial manufacture, the military and fisheries, for example, in vitro toxicity testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siân R Morgan
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
| | - Laura Paletto
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Laboratories, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Benjamin Rumney
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Laboratories, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Farhana T Malik
- Lifescaped, Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HD, UK
| | - Nick White
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Laboratories, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Philip N Lewis
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
| | - Andrew R Parker
- Lifescaped, Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA, UK
- Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HD, UK
| | - Simon Holden
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JQ, UK
| | - Keith M Meek
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK
| | - Julie Albon
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
- Cardiff Institute for Tissue Engineering and Repair, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, UK.
- Vivat Scientia Bioimaging Laboratories, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
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